Upsizing Checklist

Thinking about upgrading to a larger home? Whether your family is growing, you're working from home, or you just want more space, upsizing can be an exciting but overwhelming process. To help you navigate this transition smoothly, we’ve created the ultimate upsizing checklist to guide you through each step.

1. Define Your Reasons for Upsizing

Before you start house hunting, consider why you need more space:
✔ Are you expanding your family?
✔ Do you need a home office or extra workspace?
✔ Are you looking for a bigger yard or outdoor space?
✔ Do you want additional storage or amenities?
✔ Are you moving for lifestyle changes (schools, location, etc.)?

Understanding your "why" will help you prioritize your needs and find a home that truly fits your goals.

2. Set Your Budget & Understand the Costs

Upsizing means more space, but also more expenses. Be sure to account for:
✔ Higher mortgage payments
✔ Increased property taxes
✔ Higher utility bills
✔ Additional maintenance costs (yard, repairs, cleaning)
✔ New furniture or renovations

Pro Tip: Get pre-approved for a mortgage before shopping to know exactly what you can afford.

3. List Your "Must-Haves" & "Nice-to-Haves"

When looking for a bigger home, it's easy to get carried away. Make a list of essential features vs. bonus features to stay focused:

Must-Haves:
✔ Number of bedrooms/bathrooms
✔ Storage space (garage, closets, attic)
✔ Functional kitchen and living space
✔ Location & commute time
✔ School district or neighborhood preference



Nice-to-Haves:
✔ Home office or flex space
✔ Large backyard or pool
✔ Extra guest rooms
✔ Smart home features

4. Sell Your Current Home Strategically

If you're selling your current home to buy a bigger one, timing is crucial. Here's how to maximize your sale:

 ✔ Declutter and stage your home to appeal to buyers
✔ Work with an experienced real estate agent to price it competitively
✔ Plan your sale and purchase timeline carefully to avoid being stuck between homes
✔ Have a backup plan (renting temporarily, leaseback options)

Pro Tip: Selling before buying can give you stronger negotiating power and prevent financial strain.

5. Research the Best Areas for Your Lifestyle

When upsizing, it's not just about the home size—it's also about the neighborhood.

 ✔ Is the new location convenient for work and schools?
✔ Are there parks, shopping, and amenities nearby?
✔ What’s the resale value and long-term potential of the area?
✔ Are property taxes and HOA fees reasonable?

Don’t just buy for today—buy for your future needs as well!

6. Plan for Moving Day & New Home Adjustments

Moving into a larger home means more space to manage. Make sure you're ready:

 ✔ Hire professional movers (or book a moving truck early)
✔ Plan furniture placement & measure key areas before moving
✔ Update your address with banks, subscriptions, and utilities
✔ Get a home inspection & make necessary repairs
✔ Set up smart storage solutions to keep your larger home organized

7. Enjoy Your New Space!

Once you've successfully upsized, take time to settle in and personalize your home.

 ✔ Host a housewarming party
✔ Organize and decorate each space intentionally
✔ Establish maintenance routines for a bigger home
✔ Enjoy the comfort, functionality, and extra space you worked hard for!